PARISH MINISTRY IN THE HERITAGE OF HOLY CROSS

“Work ceaselessly to care for the flock entrusted to you.”

The five qualities cited in this series of bulletin inserts were articulated by the 1998 general chapter (assembly) of the Priests and Brothers of the Congregation of Holy Cross.

III. SPIRIT OF COLLABORATION WITH OTHERS TO EMPOWER THEM, THROUGH SPIRITUAL AND THEOLOGICAL FORMATION, TO BECOME ACTIVE MINISTERS OF EVANGELIZATION.

Father Moreau never wanted the women and men of Holy Cross to work in isolation from others who could assist them. Holy Cross religious were never to be an elitist band of ministers. He encouraged various kinds of collaboration with others to enhance the effectiveness of the services to be provided. This was essential in educational settings, but it was true in the methods for operating parishes associated with Holy Cross. He would write letters to those familiar with Holy Cross to ask for financial support, for their assistance, and for vocations.

Father Moreau’s understanding of collaboration reflects the theology of the Body of Christ as presented by Saint Paul. There are many members, each with a contribution to make, but there is one body, the community of Jesus’ followers and co-workers. Father Moreau writes about this spirit of collaboration.

All the members must cultivate the spirit of mutual love and cooperation, and have at heart the welfare of the Association as a whole... There will not be a single member of our Association who will not make a personal contribution to its progress, according to individual strength, intellectual ability and particular aptitudes. One will do intellectual work, and another, manual labor; this one will teach, that one will administer; and all the while this activity of the individual will help the community, and the activity of the community will, in turn, help each individual.

Collaboration recognizes that none of us stands alone.

The challenge today is to examine how everyone in the parish community can participate in continuing the mission of Jesus. The call to live the gospel is not extended to a few people only. All followers of Jesus must live the example he established and continue the work he began. Collaboration flourishes in an environment where there is an understanding and acceptance of our interdependence with one another for living that example and continuing that work. Any form of elitism or isolationism is inconsistent with the heritage of Holy Cross and with gospel values.

1. Identify some examples of the “spirit of collaboration” at work in the parish.

2. How are people encouraged to become “active ministers of evangelization”?

3. To which programs do parishioners have access that offer “spiritual and theological formation”?